Magic makes a stop in Frankfort

Magic makes a stop in Frankfort

NBA legend Magic Johnson was in Frankfort today to support a bill that would raise Kentucky’s minimum dropout age from 16 to 18.

“You must raise the dropout age limit to 18,” he told a crowd of reporters, legislators and onlookers at the Capitol, his words receiving a roar of applause.

House Bill 301 would mandate that beginning in 2013, students must attend school until they turn 17. In 2014, students could not drop out until they are 18.

“Young people today have to have an education – you cannot survive in this economy without a proper education,” he continued.

“We must continue to rally behind our young people and get them to understand that the only way they’re going to be successful in society is through a proper education.”

Gov. Steve Beshear, first lady Jane Beshear and Rep. Carl Rollins of Midway stood beside the former Los Angeles Laker, their heads barely reaching his shoulder.

Johnson said he spent an hour this afternoon speaking with the Beshears about Kentucky’s education system.

“You have a first lady who is a participant in what happens to children’s education,” he said. “She has a big heart, she has a vision, she’s involved, and I love that.”

State Education Commissioner Terry Holliday welcomed Johnson's support.

"I think the momentum for this is really rolling now, and it's the right thing to do," he told The State Journal. "I was in Tennessee the other day, and their dropout age is 18 -- surely we can beat Tennessee."

Johnson said he plans to attend the University of Kentucky basketball game tonight in Lexington, and he predicted a victory for the Wildcats over South Carolina.

http://www.state-journal.com/news/article/4777673